Robert Joseph “RJ” Hess

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: Fairfax, VA

Branch of Service: United States Army

Rank: 1st Lt.

Robert Joseph “RJ” Hess joined ROTC in college and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the United States Army in 2010. He attended the Basic Officer Leaders Course and flight school from June 2011 to November 2012. After completing pilot training at Fort Rucker, Alabama, he was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum. RJ served as a UH-60M Blackhawk pilot and mission planner.

RJ’s friends know him as a sweet, kind, genuine and compassionate human. He had a wonderful sense of humor. RJ was the kind of person that could brighten up a room and bring a smile to everyone he met. He put his heart and soul into everything he did and was a natural leader and a great officer. RJ loved the Army and wanted to serve his country. He died living his dream.

RJ’s awards and decorations include the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, the NATO Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Combat Action Badge, the Army Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Army Aviator Badge.

Age: 26

Date of Death: April 23, 2013